Evidence and recommendations

The NHS newborn hearing screening programme (NHSP) aims to identify moderate, severe and profound deafness and hearing impairment in newborn babies. The programme offers all parents in England the opportunity to have their baby’s hearing tested shortly after birth.

Hearing impairment

Early identification of hearing impairment gives children a better chance of developing speech and language skills, and of making the most of social and emotional interaction from an early age.

Screening tests

The parents of all babies born or resident in England should be offered hearing screening for their baby within 4 to 5 weeks of birth.

Babies that miss screening should receive it as soon as possible, but not after 3 months of age.

Some babies are not eligible for screening; this may be because the babies have an already-known risk of hearing impairment or deafness, from another condition. Healthcare staff can refer these babies for full audiological assessment without requiring a routine hearing screen.

The programme offers 2 types of test:

automated otoacoustic emission (AOAE): usually the default test for well babies.

automated auditory brainstem response (AABR): test performed on both ears when there was no clear AOAE response.

Local screening programmes should use approved equipment only.

There are separate protocols for well babies, and for those who have spent over 48 hours in SCBU or NICU.

Providing prompt care

The earlier a baby is identified as having hearing impairment or deafness, the better the outcomes for the family. The programme aims to screen babies within 5 weeks of birth. This test can take place in hospital, outpatient clinic, or at home by a health visitor.

Training

Healthcare professional and programme staff can use the NHSP learning module to update their knowledge on the NHSP screening process.